Velvet plant (Gynura aurantiaca), also known as purple passion plant or velvet purple, is a stunning houseplant with soft, fuzzy leaves that range in color from deep green to rich purple. It’s a low-maintenance plant that can thrive indoors or outdoors in warmer climates.
If you’re looking to give your velvet plant a new home, transplanting it can be a great way to refresh its soil and give it more space to grow. Here’s what you need to know to successfully transplant your velvet plant.
Transplanting your velvet plant is best done during its active growth period, which is typically in the spring or early summer. This gives the plant time to adjust to its new environment and establish its roots before the cooler fall and winter months.
It’s also important to wait until your velvet plant has outgrown its current pot or container before transplanting it. Signs that your plant needs a new home include roots growing out of the drainage holes, stunted growth, or soil that dries out too quickly.
Choose Your New Pot: Select a pot that’s one size larger than your current one. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom.
Prepare Your Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that’s rich in organic matter. You can also add perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Water Your Plant: Give your velvet plant a thorough watering a day before you plan to transplant it. This helps moisten the soil and make it easier to remove the plant from its current container.
Remove Your Plant: Gently remove your velvet plant from its current pot by turning it upside down and tapping the bottom of the container. You can also slide a knife around the edge of the pot to loosen any roots that may be clinging to the sides.
Inspect the Roots: Check the roots for any signs of damage or disease. If you notice any brown, mushy, or rotting roots, trim them off with clean scissors or pruning shears.
Plant Your Velvet Plant: Place your plant in the center of the new pot and add soil around it, gently pressing it down to remove any air pockets. Make sure the top of the soil is level with the base of the plant’s stem.
Water Your Plant: Give your velvet plant a good watering to help settle the soil and stimulate root growth.
Avoid transplanting your velvet plant during its dormant period in the fall and winter.
Make sure your new pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot.
Use a potting mix that’s specifically designed for indoor plants or succulents.
Don’t overwater your plant after transplanting it. Wait until the top inch or two of soil is dry before watering again.
Q: Can I use garden soil to transplant my velvet plant?
A: No, garden soil is too heavy and can retain too much moisture, which can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining potting mix instead.
Q: How often should I water my velvet plant after transplanting it?
A: Wait until the top inch or two of soil is dry before watering again. This can vary depending on factors like temperature, humidity, and sunlight.
Q: Should I fertilize my velvet plant after transplanting it?
A: Wait a few weeks before fertilizing your velvet plant after transplanting it to give it time to adjust to its new environment. Then, you can fertilize it once a month during its active growth period with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Transplanting your velvet plant can be a great way to give it more space to grow and refresh its soil. With these tips and steps, you’ll be able to successfully transplant your velvet plant and enjoy its beautiful foliage for years to come.